If you have oily skin, you know the hard time it gives you by causing constant shine, enlarged pores, and the never-ending search for products that don’t make things worse. However, skipping sunscreen isn’t an option, especially when UV rays are one of the primary causes of premature aging, pigmentation, and acne scars.
So, what’s the solution? Should you choose a mineral sunblock or a chemical one for your oily skin? In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how each type of sunscreen works, what makes them different, and which one performs better for oily and acne-prone skin. You’ll also discover key ingredients to look for and tips to choose the right sunblock that won’t leave you with a heavy or sticky feeling. Let’s start!
Understanding Oily Skin in Pakistan’s Climate
In Pakistan, the weather is mainly hot and humid, so the temperature in summer is very high. This weather mostly makes our skin oilier than ever. When it is hot and humid outside, our skin’s oil glands produce more oil to keep the skin moisturized, which results in our skin becoming oily. People in coastal areas or southern places such as Karachi experience excessive oiliness, while those in arid regions, on the other hand, might still suffer the problem of oiliness from the heat and dust.
Oily skin leads to such problems as pimples, blackheads, and shininess. To control it, washing with a mild cleanser twice a day, avoiding heavy creams, and using moisturizers and sunblock for oily skin are essential steps. Consuming healthy foods and drinking sufficient amounts of water are also very helpful for the skin to remain balanced and fresh in extreme climates.
Why Oily Skin Needs Special Sun Protection
Oily skin secretes more sebum, which can combine with skin sweat and dirt. This is especially common in the summertime and in humid climates. The excess oil can also lead to the formation of acne or pimples if the skin is exposed to sunlight. Moreover, the sun can also cause the skin to become sensitive and rough. Therefore, oily skin must constantly be supplied with sunscreens that provide adequate protection.
With the right sunscreen, the oiliness of the skin can be controlled, and its health will be maintained. Light, oil-free, and non-comedogenic sunscreens provide complete protection against harmful rays of the sun while at the same time preventing the skin from shine or clogging pores. Thus, the skin is not only protected, but it also stays fresh and balanced under the sun.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?
Sunscreens are mainly divided into two types, mineral (physical) and chemical, and the key difference is how they protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays:
1. Mineral Sunscreens (Physical Sunscreens)
Mineral-based sunscreens are made with natural elements like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The minerals just stay on the skin and are like a barrier or a mirror that reflects and scatters the sun’s UV rays away from the skin. They trigger their effect as soon as they are applied, hence there is no need for waiting before stepping out. Mineral sunscreens are typically mild and suggested for individuals with sensitive, acne-prone, or oily skin. However, they may occasionally produce a white cast, particularly on dark skin
2. Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens use ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, or octocrylene. Instead of sitting on top of the skin, these chemicals absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They often feel lighter, blend easily, and leave no white cast. However, they need about 15–20 minutes after application to start working, and some ingredients may irritate sensitive skin or cause breakouts for oily skin types.
Best Sunscreen Ingredients for Oily Skin
When choosing the best sunblock in Pakistan, it’s important to look for ingredients that protect your skin from the sun while also controlling excess oil and preventing breakouts. Here are some of the best ingredients to look for:
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral ingredient that provides strong protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and it also helps calm acne and redness, perfect for oily and acne-prone skin.
Titanium Dioxide
Another mineral filter, titanium dioxide, reflects the sun’s rays and is gentle on sensitive skin. It gives a matte finish, which helps reduce the greasy look that often comes with oily skin.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide helps regulate oil production, shrink pores, and soothe the skin. When included in sunscreens, it makes the formula more suitable for oily and combination skin types.
Silica or Dimethicone
These ingredients help absorb excess oil and give the sunscreen a smooth, non-greasy texture. They also help makeup stay on longer, making them ideal for daily use.
Green Tea Extract
Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract helps control oil, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from environmental damage. It’s a great bonus ingredient in sunscreens for oily or acne-prone skin.
Oil-Free Formulas
Besides the active ingredients, always choose sunscreens labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic. These are specially made to prevent clogged pores and help your skin stay fresh and matte throughout the day.
How To Choose The Right Sunblock For Oily Skin
There is no easy way to select the best sunblock for face with oily skin because most of the time, people experience greasiness or acne as a result of using products meant for sun protection. The perfect choice would be to search for those that are designated according to your skin type. The skin will be protected with these kinds of UV sunscreens and also be kept fresh and free of shine.
Confirm if the ingredients mentioned in the sunblock go perfectly with your skin type. Choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum, like SPF 30 or higher, for complete sun protection. A sun protection cream that absorbs quickly without leaving behind a white cast is the best for daily use, especially in hot and humid places like the climate of Pakistan.
Expert Recommendations: Mineral or Chemical Sunscreen?
The recommendations are mostly based on skin type and personalized comfort. Here we have compiled recommendations for both types of sunblock for a better idea:
For Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens, which contain the elements zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, just lie on the surface of the skin and reflect the UV rays away from it. Alongside being super gentle, mineral sunscreens are also non-comedogenic and are perfect for individuals with oily, sensitive, or prone-to-acne skin.
Furthermore, they give instant protection to the skin after application, so they have been considered safe for daily use. But sometimes, their application might result in the skin having a white cast or the user may feel a little heavy on the skin, particularly in hot and humid areas.
For Chemical Sunscreens
On the contrary, chemical sunscreens do absorb the UV rays and turn them into heat. They are slightly less irritating and thus a great option for sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens are the most suitable ones for daily use under makeup as they have a very light texture, blend properly, and have no visible residue.
Generally, they require around 15 to 20 minutes to become completely effective. They may irritate sensitive skin if careful formulation is not followed. The experts recommend using both mineral and chemical sunscreens with the aid of oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that prioritize comfort and consistency, as the best sunscreen is the one that you really can use regularly.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting oily, acne-prone skin, both mineral and chemical sunscreens have their benefits. Mineral sunscreens are considered to be very gentle, not clogging pores, and providing protection, while chemical sunscreens are the opposite, providing a very light and easily blendable option. The most important thing is to find a suitable sunscreen that you can comfortably wear every day.
If you are looking for a brand that offers the best combination of protection, comfort, and skin health, then Bloom Skincare is the one. Their sunscreens are particularly made for oily-skin types, so daily mattification and skin health are the benefits that come with using them. With the right selection, you can secure sun protection and, at the same time, enjoy comfort and skin health.